The Finocchiaro CLP Government is investing in remote communities, with a planned $4.14 million upgrade to the Borroloola Power Station to strengthen economic growth in the region.

The Borroloola Power Station has an existing power supply of 1.8 megawatts, supported by three 1MVA step-up transformers.

With several electricity connection requests, including one for the Borroloola Health Clinic and another for Jirrbilyi Borroloola Central, a new commercial multi-use precinct, demand for power in the community is expected to rise by 58 per cent.

Minister for Essential Services Steve Edgington said the power upgrade was part of the CLP government’s commitment to working with Aboriginal communities and partnering with local businesses, organisations and the Australian government to create economic resilience and foster development in the region.

“This is an important investment that will increase the reliability and efficiency of power supply, and rebuild economic development in the community,” he said.

“We are ensuring Borroloola has the services and critical enabling infrastructure it needs to grow and improve the lives of locals.”

The CLP Government has committed $20 million to construct the Borroloola Health Centre and recently opened the $11.7 million Borroloola Sports and Cyclone Shelter.

Jointly funded by the NT Government and the McArthur River Mine Community Benefits Trust (MRMCBT), the dual-purpose facility saw $9.8 million delivered through a grant to the Roper Gulf Regional Council (RGRC), with MRMCBT contributing a further $1.5 million and RGRC $400,000.

The MRMCBT and Australian government will invest $23 million toward the multi-use development Jirrbilyi Borroloola Central.

The project will include three commercial tenancies, 6 retail tenancies, a renal dialysis clinic, child and family centre, youth centre, Northern Territory Government service hub, and other important services including a pharmacy.

“Borroloola is a strong and growing community, and we are committed to delivering more services,” Mr Edgington said.

“Whether it’s a health clinic or a multi-purpose service centre, the community will need more power, so investing in an upgrade to the power station is vital.

“In our year of action, certainty and security it’s all part of our plan to rebuild the economy by working with businesses and industry to expand the access to services that will improve the lives of Territorians.”

The delivery of the upgrade to Borroloola Power Station by Power and Water will include:

·         A new fourth generator (1 MW)

·         Expanded fuel storage

·         Upgraded transformers and switchgear

Power and Water will work with Territory contractors on the upgrade, and with local health services and businesses to ensure Borroloola’s future energy needs are met.

Mr Edgington said these enhancements will increase the station’s capacity and enable new customers to connect to the network.

“This investment ensures families, households, local groups, businesses and health services will continue to have the reliable power they need,” he said.

The Borroloola Power Station upgrade is expected to be completed in September 2026.

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom